Leonardo da Vinci spent over a decade studying horse anatomy and movement to prepare for the original sculpture.
The statue is one of the largest equestrian sculptures in the world, weighing approximately 15 tons.
The original clay model created by Da Vinci was destroyed in 1499 by French troops using it for target practice.
Nina Akamu used Da Vinci’s specific sketches and anatomical drawings as the primary blueprints for the 1999 reconstruction.
The project was made possible by the non-profit Leonardo da Vinci's Horse Foundation, which raised funds for over 15 years.
Leonardo's Horse is a 7.3-meter-tall bronze equestrian statue located at the San Siro Hippodrome in Milan. It is based on clay models created by Leonardo da Vinci between 1482 and 1493 for Duke Ludovico Sforza. The original project was abandoned after the bronze intended for the casting was diverted to make cannons for the Duke's military efforts. The statue standing today was completed in 1999 by sculptor Nina Akamu, commissioned by philanthropist Charles C. Dent. It was cast in seven sections and assembled in the United States before being transported to Milan. The design utilizes the anatomy of horses Da Vinci studied extensively in his notebooks. The sculpture is situated within the grounds of the historic horse racing venue, the Ippodromo Snai San Siro.
Position yourself at the front-left angle of the horse to capture the statue with the historic grandstands of the Hippodrome in the background.
Combine your visit with a tour of the San Siro racecourse to see the historic stables and gardens.
Check the hippodrome event calendar, as some races or concerts may restrict access to certain areas of the grounds.
Wear comfortable shoes, as the statue is situated within a large park complex.
Do not visit on days when major concert events are hosted at the San Siro, as the venue becomes highly congested and access may be limited.
The site typically follows the operational schedule of the San Siro Hippodrome and may be closed to the public on private event days or winter off-seasons.
Respect the facility's grounds by staying on designated paths; no specific dress code is enforced.
